Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for activating the lateral friction of pile-like load-bearing members which are founded in solid rock. The apparatus includes a device which is suitable for reducing a height of the apparatus when the apparatus is subjected to loading by a compressive force. The loading with the compressive force can cause a pile-like load-bearing member to settle in a controlled manner in the ground, the level of settlement being sufficient for activating the lateral friction on the pile-like load-bearing member. The invention also relates to pile-like load-bearing members and building constructions which include such an apparatus as well as to a method for activating the lateral friction of pile-like load-bearing members and a method for erecting a building construction.